MCFRS News Release


For Immediate Release:
February 23, 2013

Release ID: 13-005
Contact: Scott Graham, Public Information Office
(240) 876-1260 Phone
(240) 777-2442 Media Line
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Early Morning Fire Damages Kensington Home

Montgomery County, MD - - -  This morning at approximately 4:41 a.m., Montgomery County Fire and Rescue units responded to 11118 Nicholas Drive in Kensington, for a report of a house fire. The first arriving units found fire coming from a first floor window on the side of the structure. An interior fire attack began with four interior hose lines deployed. The fire involved a portion of the first floor and extended into the attic before being brought under control.

It was determined that the house was a rental and the lessees had recently abandoned the property. The fire origin and cause examination revealed that the fire started under the kitchen sink. Several energized electrical items were discovered within the area of origin. However, extensive fire damage to the area of origin and the various appliances prevented the identification of a specific item as the cause of the fire. The fire is therefore classified as undetermined. The fire will continue to be investigated and updates provided as additional findings are revealed.

An ionization smoke detector activated during the fire, however, the house was not occupied at the time.

Four firefighters were injured, all with non-life threatening injuries, and were treated at local hospitals. Approximately 80 fire rescue personnel responded to fight the fire.

Damage is estimated to be approximately $200K and no occupants were displaced.

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